Butternut Squash Apple Bake

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that embodies the flavors of fall, you’ve found it in Butternut Squash Apple Bake. This recipe is not just any ordinary side dish; it’s a warm, sweet medley that fills your kitchen with the comforting scents of cinnamon and baked apples. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something simple yet delicious, or for family gatherings where everyone will appreciate its delightful flavor.

This dish brings together the natural sweetness of butternut squash and apples, making it a favorite on my holiday table. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or as a warm treat during a chilly evening, Butternut Squash Apple Bake is sure to please!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the sweet taste, making it an excellent way to sneak in some veggies.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish or even as a light dessert.
• Packed with flavor: The combination of butternut squash, apples, and spices creates a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious Butternut Squash Apple Bake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local market. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Bake

• 1 1/2 pounds peeled (seeded, and small cubed butternut squash {about 2 cups, cubed evenly})
• 2 gala apples (peeled, cored and diced {or a sweet apple of your choice})
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar {or use honey}
• 2 tablespoons butter (chopped into sections)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup pecans {or walnuts}
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

Variations

One of the best things about Butternut Squash Apple Bake is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add more fruits: Toss in some pears or figs for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Change the nuts: Use almonds or pistachios instead of pecans or walnuts for different textures.
• Spice it up: Add nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick of flavor.
• Sweeten differently: Try maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique taste.

How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. This ensures that your Butternut Squash Apple Bake cooks evenly and comes out perfectly tender.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, diced apples, cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar. Mixing these ingredients well is essential because it allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Season It Up

Add salt and pepper to the mixture and mix again. The subtle seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of the squash and apples without overpowering them.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Pour the butternut squash mixture into a baking dish that has a lid. Spread it out evenly so everything bakes uniformly. This step is important because an even layer will ensure each bite is filled with flavor.

Step 5: Start Baking

Place chopped butter throughout the mixture before covering the dish and baking for 15 minutes. The butter will melt into the vegetables, adding richness to every bite.

Step 6: Add Dried Fruits and Nuts

After 15 minutes, add raisins, cranberries, and pecans to the dish. Gently toss everything together using tongs or a spoon before covering again and returning to the oven for another 15 minutes. This step adds texture and bursts of sweetness from the dried fruits.

Step 7: Finish Up

Once everything is tender and lightly browned, remove your Butternut Squash Apple Bake from the oven. Give it a good stir before serving warm. Enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends; it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Making the perfect Butternut Squash Apple Bake is all about a few little tricks that can elevate this dish to a whole new level. Here are some tips to ensure your bake is nothing short of amazing!

• Choose ripe apples: Using sweet, ripe apples like Gala or Honeycrisp will enhance the overall flavor of the dish, adding a delightful sweetness that balances well with the earthy squash.

• Uniform cutting: Make sure to cut your butternut squash and apples into even cubes. This allows them to cook evenly, ensuring a perfect texture throughout.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for extra warmth and depth of flavor. These spices complement the sweetness beautifully, enhancing the fall vibe.

• Let it rest before serving: Allow your dish to sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps all the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.

• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh spices and produce. Fresh ingredients can make a noticeable difference in flavor and will improve the quality of your dish.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Apple Bake

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting it beautifully can make it a star on your holiday table. Here are some ideas for serving this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish, enhancing its visual appeal.
• Toast pecans or walnuts: Lightly toasting these nuts before sprinkling them on top offers a crunchy texture and rich nuttiness that complements the softness of the bake.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Green Beans: These provide a lovely crunch that contrasts nicely with the softness of the butternut squash bake. Simply sauté them with garlic for added flavor.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully. It adds protein and brings bright flavors to your table.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts until they are caramelized enhances their natural sweetness, making them a fantastic side that complements the flavors in your squash bake.
• Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash adds another layer of sweetness while providing a hearty element to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Butternut Squash Apple Bake will surely impress at any gathering! Enjoy every warm bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is perfect for meal prep, making it a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and store it for later use.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool before freezing.
• Portion out the bake into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes), or microwave in individual portions until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other types of apples for the Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

Absolutely! While gala apples work wonderfully, you can substitute them with any sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just choose what you love best!

How can I make my Butternut Squash Apple Bake vegan?

You can easily make this dish vegan by replacing butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter, and using maple syrup instead of brown sugar.

What are some variations I can try with Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

Feel free to experiment! You might add spices like nutmeg or ginger, or include additional nuts and seeds for extra crunch. Dried fruits like apricots or figs also make great additions!

How long does it take to prepare the Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

The total preparation and cooking time is about 35 minutes, making it a quick yet satisfying side dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make this Butternut Squash Apple Bake as I am! It truly captures the essence of fall with its warm flavors and comforting texture. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving dinner or enjoying it as a cozy weeknight meal, this dish is bound to impress. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how yours turns out!